What will happen if I drink mercury?

The inorganic salts of mercury are corrosive to the skin, eyes and gastrointestinal tract, and may induce kidney toxicity if ingested. Neurological and behavioural disorders may be observed after inhalation, ingestion or dermal exposure of different mercury compounds.

Can mercury in thermometer kill you?

On the other hand, a branded digital thermometer costs around Rs 250, but there are cheaper models too. Mercury is a neurotoxin, meaning it attacks the nervous system and brain. In extreme cases, mercury poisoning can lead to coma and death. However, the symptoms of mercury poisoning can be reversed in adults.

What are the effects of mercury poisoning on humans?

Symptoms of poisoning from elemental mercury

• tremors.
• headaches.
• difficulty sleeping.
• impaired sensations.
• muscle weakness and twitching.
• emotional changes (mood swings, irritability, nervousness)
• kidney damage.
• breathing difficulties.

Is mercury safe to touch?

Mercury is a very toxic or poisonous substance that people can be exposed to in several ways. If it is swallowed, like from a broken thermometer, it mostly passes through your body and very little is absorbed. If you touch it, a small amount may pass through your skin, but not usually enough to harm you.

Can we take mercury in hand?

Mercury does not absorb through your skin instantly. Elemental mercury does absorb through your skin, but at a very slow pace (very slowly). As long as you don’t expose your skin to the metal too much and you wash your hands after then you would be fine.

How does mercury affect the brain?

Many studies show that high exposure to mercury induces changes in the central nervous system, potentially resulting in irritability, fatigue, behavioral changes, tremors, headaches, hearing and cognitive loss, dysarthria, incoordination, hallucinations, and death.

How does Mercury kill you?

Mercury can kill you. It is rare that immediate exposure to mercury is fatal. Serious health effects from mercury are more likely due to long-term exposure.

Why is mercury so dangerous?

Mercury is especially dangerous when it gets into Earth’s water systems, as if it is ingested by microorganisms it can pass up the food chain to humans.

What happens if you swallow Mercury from a thermometer?

Depending on how much is swallowed, symptoms may include: If inorganic mercury enters your bloodstream, it can attack the kidneys and brain. Permanent kidney damage and kidney failure may occur. A large amount in the bloodstream may cause massive blood and fluid loss from diarrhea and kidney failure, leading to death.

What will happen if you drink contaminated water?

The presence of contaminants in water can lead to adverse health effects, including gastrointestinal illness, reproductive problems, and neurological disorders.